Target: Alderman Brian Kingston, Lord Mayor of Belfast
Goal: Praise decision to return sweet dog to his owners after he was taken on suspicion of being a banned breed.
An innocent dog taken by city authorities on suspicion of being a pit bull has finally been returned to his grateful owners. Described as a “gentle giant,” Hank has never shown any signs of aggression. Instead, he is playful and affectionate and was assessed by a dog-training expert who confirmed the dog was in no way aggressive. Yet, Hank was removed from his home by officials who merely left a note for his worried owners.
The gentle and confused dog was then caged for nearly a month, risking euthanasia. Thankfully, the city council decided to release Hank, but neither he nor his owners should have been put through this ordeal. This laudable move came after a wave of public protest at the dog’s detention, including by the ForceChange community, which finally convinced authorities to grant Hank an exemption to the country’s cruel and illogical breed-specific legislation. Unfortunately, countless dogs are never returned and are put down simply because of the way they look.
Sign this petition thanking authorities for finally releasing this gentle dog and demand an end to breed-specific legislation, which results in the death of countless innocent dogs and the grief of their loving owners.
PETITION LETTER:
Dear Lord Mayor Kingston,
I am writing to praise the Belfast City Council’s decision to release an innocent dog back to his owners. Hank was taken from his family on suspicion of being a pit bull, despite having never displayed signs of aggression.
I applaud this laudable decision, which clearly proves that breed-specific legislation is useless, inhumane and irrational. Moreover, it is widely opposed by experts, politicians and the public, and is wholly inefficient in preventing dog bites. Instead, laws should be passed to regulate dog breeding.
Thank you for releasing gentle Hank, and please ensure no other animal or owners suffer this ordeal by removing breed-specific legislation once and for all.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo credit: Leonard Collins
